Charging

Charging batteries properly requires administering the right amount of current at the right voltage. The original instructions for your charging equipment should be referenced for proper charging. Here is list of helpful items to remember when charging.

   1. Become familiar with and follow the instructions issued by the charger manufacturer.
   2. Batteries should be charged after each period of use.
   3. Lead acid batteries do not develop a memory and need not be fully discharged before recharging.
   4. Charge flooded batteries only in well-ventilated areas. Keep sparks or flames away from a charging battery.
   5. Verify charger voltage settings are correct for the type of battery you are charging ( Flooded, AGM or Gel)
   6. Correct the charging voltage to compensate for temperatures above and below 25˚C/77˚F. Compensation for battery temperature above or below 25˚C/77˚F can be made by subtracting 0.005 volts per cell for each 1˚C above 25˚C or by adding 0.005 volts per cell for each 1˚C below 25˚C. Add .028 volt per cell for every 10˚ below 77˚ F and subtract .028 volt per cell for every 10˚ above 77˚ F.
   7. Check water level on flooded batteries (see the Watering section).
   8. Tighten all vent caps on flooded batteries before charging.
   9. Prevent overcharging the batteries. Overcharging causes excessive gassing (water breakdown), heat buildup, and battery aging in flooded batteries and will dry out the electrolyte and damage VRLA batteries.
  10. Prevent undercharging the batteries. Undercharging causes stratification.
  11. Do not charge a frozen battery; allow it to thaw at room temperature.
  12. Avoid charging at temperatures above 50˚C/125˚F.

IMPORTANT: Always use an automatic temperature-sensing, voltage-regulated charger! Set charger at 14.2 to 14.5 volts at 25˚C/ 77˚F for gel, or 14.4 to 14.7 volts at 25˚C/ 77˚F for AGM and/or Flooded. Do not exceed 14.5 volts for gel or 14.7 volts for AGM.